Take a pack trip either aboard a horse or with the assistance of llamas as pack animals.

Nearly every trail in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and in the wilderness areas in the region is “horse friendly” and “llama friendly”.

Horseback riding outfitters and llama outfitters are available to take you on any length of trip.

Overview

A favorite family friendly activity in the Sun Valley area is a pack trip either aboard a horse or with the assistance of llamas as pack animals. There are many outfitters in the area who specialize in making this adventure one of your most memorable experiences. Outfitters and guides offer a variety of backcountry trips. The longer trips include all amenities – gear and meals – and can include fishing opportunities in the wilderness area.

Where to go on a pack trip

For true solitude and a unique experience try a pack trip in many of the areas in the immediate vicinity of Sun Valley. Nearly every trail in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area and in the wilderness areas in the region is “horse friendly” and “llama friendly”. For long backpacking trips into the wilderness area, you may want to consider using a horse to ride, to pack your gear or to do both. In addition, there are a multitude of trails in the Copper Basin area near Mackay, Idaho.

You can ride through towering evergreen, and along historic mining and logging trails in the Galena area. Near Redfish, you will find rides to Alice, Sawtooth, Marshall, and Hell-Roaring Lakes. There are enough trails in this area that you can take overnight and longer trips if you want.
Another interesting day trip is to Pole Creek Ranger Station. Built in 1909, Ranger Bill Horton fenced off a pasture for his horses next to the station. It is a beautiful place with a corral for your horses.

Away from crowds, Grandjean is an older campground with all the character that comes with age. Campers with horses, tent and recreation vehicle enjoy this scenic campground along the Payette River. This campground also features immediate access to the Sawtooth Wilderness and a network of delightful trails. Take these trails to explore deeper into the wilderness area.

Guided Tours and Rentals

Horseback riding outfitters and llama outfitters are just waiting to take you on any length of trip. From day trips with llamas, to multi-day trips on horseback, the guides who accompany you lead you through a variety of magnificent remote, wilderness areas.